Wellbutin and Drinking

[Sall7707]

Hello, I have recently been perscribed 150 miligrams of Wellbutrin 1X a day for mild depressive symptoms. I am not a big drinker, but on occasion will have more than two drinks. I am in my mid twenties and this is a big part of socalization. I am wondering after doing my own research and talking to my doctor what your thoughts are on the complications between alchol and Wellbutrin. I have never had a seizure this is my first time ever taking any meds for mental health and most days I am fine...just going through a difficult life transition. I hope to be off the Wellbutrin withing a few months.

Thanks

[Peter Forster]

There is not likely to be a significant risk from combining a low dose of Wellbutrin with moderate drinking. The risk that does exist would relate to the fact that alcohol withdrawal tends to lower the seizure threshold and Wellbutrin does the same. And believe it or not, you experience mild alcohol withdrawal during the night after you drink more than two drinks of alcohol (hence the disrupted sleep). So, the risk depends on how much more than two drinks you have....

[Jaquta]

I would strongly recommend abstaining or limiting your alcohol use while taking meds.  I'm not a doctor though.  I have read other posts where members have said that their doctors have OKed moderate use of alcohol while taking these meds.
I would be very cautious and adhere to your doctors advice.  It's important to stay safe but also to continue participating in social events and in life.

I hope this difficult phase you're going through is short-lived.

All the best.